MOTORISTS TAKE TO THE SEA FOR THEIR M.O.T.

Ferry company Stena Line reports increase in bookings during ‘testing’ time for NI motorists

THE recent issue around MOT testing has thrown a real spanner in the works for thousands of motorists in Northern Ireland but many are finding a solution across the water in Scotland, according to leading ferry company Stena Line.

With MOT testing at a standstill in Northern Ireland, Stena Line has reported a surge in enquiries from NI motorists looking to have their cars tested in Scotland – so much so that the company is offering a speedy solution in the form of a special MOT Day Trip from Belfast to Cairnryan from only £129 for a car and two people return.

There are various MOT centres surrounding the Cairnryan area, all of which can test a vehicle and issue an MOT certificate which is valid throughout the UK, with the added advantage that there is a mechanic on hand to fix a problem that might otherwise cause the car to fail.

To help motorists, the Stena Line website has provided a list of MOT centres within a 30-minute drive of Cairnryan port and, whilst you don’t need to book your test weeks in advance, the company does recommend that people call or research the options before they travel.

Orla Noonan, Stena Line’s Travel Commercial Manager, Irish Sea North, said: “Due to recent setbacks in Northern Ireland’s MOT testing facilities we were driven to bring back our MOT offer for people to make the easy trip to Scotland to carry out their MOT test comfortably and in one day!

“We have been speaking to garages in the area and have discovered that vehicles can be tested for as little as £40, so it really is worthwhile for those wanting to have their cars tested and approved with a minimum of fuss.

“In fact, it’s so hassle-free that motorists might even have time left over to take a drive to Glasgow or take in the beautiful Scottish countryside in their newly tested car!” added Orla.

The Stena Line MOT Day Trip offer is valid for travel from Monday to Saturday, with options of an outward sailing of 07.30am or 11.30am and then return sailings of 15.30pm or 19.30pm.

To make a booking or view a list of MOT centres, click on www.stenaline.co.uk/mot. Customers must arrange their own MOT tests with their chosen garage.